Research Team: University of Defence

Optical fibre sensor systems are very suitable for the detection of non-electrical quantities, especially temperature and pressure changes. Due to the non-electrical nature of these sensors, they can be used in hazardous zones. For space applications, the polarisation variant of fibre optic sensors is particularly suitable due to their excellent sensitivity and safety. Many years of experience with these types of sensors and their testing in the military facilities of the Czech Army have demonstrated effective capabilities in securing various types of areas and zones. Due to their safety and sensitivity to temperatures close to the human body temperature, polarization fibre optic sensors are also suitable for biomedical applications.

Hybrid signal processing using mem elements is closely related to the evaluation of analog signals from fiber optic sensors. The principle is based on two-way processing using both analogue and digital paths. The analogue path provides an instantaneous response to detected changes in the sensor, where the instantaneous changes, i.e. derivatives, of the sensed signal are evaluated and a single-bit signal is output as a result of comparison with a set critical value. Digital processing requires first AD conversion and then digital evaluation of the acquired data over time, i.e. post-processing, which is not for immediate response but to obtain more information about the measured data that can be compared with some standard waveforms.

For space applications we are verifying the possibility of detection of localization and identification of electromagnetic radiation sources in the microwave domain in Earth orbits. Immediate overview of all these objects of interest, such as mapping radars, communication and navigation satellites, etc. is important information for commanders at the highest levels of command as well as for the activities of individual soldiers.

In cooperation with the Technical University of Munich, we are preparing the interconnection of the Defence University's private 5G satellite network with their network.

From the point of view of the efficiency of space vehicles, the development of high-performance structural materials capable of operating in demanding conditions, such as those prevailing during launch and flight of a launch vehicle or the movement of a satellite in orbit, is a very important area. This means the development of materials with excellent mechanical properties, low density and corresponding physical properties. In addition, with advances in other areas of science and technology and the advent of new manufacturing technologies, there is also the possibility of developing materials or complex structures that are capable of changing their properties in response to changing environments or providing data on their condition or loading.

Given the need to achieve the high level of safety and reliability required in aerospace, an important related issue is the development of appropriate methods of non-destructive inspection of manufactured parts of the structure, or the development of materials and structures capable of diagnosing their own condition or at least leading to higher inspection efficiency.

Remote sensing is one of the key areas for obtaining information about objects and phenomena occurring on the Earth's surface without direct contact with it. This is done by sensing reflected or emitted energy and processing, interpreting, analyzing and applying this information. Earth observation using satellite sensors is a dynamically developing field with overlap into many other fields of human activity.

In addition to monitoring the development of new platforms and sensors, the focus of research is on the processing of satellite image data that are used for visual interpretation or image analysis - multispectral, multitemporal and others. An important topic is the use of satellite image data aimed at defence and security, such as the assessment of image interpretability, the ability to recognize and identify specific objects and details in image data of different spatial, radiometric and spectral resolutions. Satellite image data are also indispensable in the creation of various products in the field of cartography, geography, geoinformatics, climatology or meteorology, precisely to support this very specific field.

In space, astronauts are exposed to ionizing cosmic radiation, which has a negative impact on the organism. This significantly affects the possibilities of long-term human stay in space, for example, during interplanetary flights. From a biological point of view, the effects of high doses of ionising radiation on living organisms are well described, but the precise effect of low doses of radiation has not yet been fully understood. It is therefore necessary to focus on research not only on the effect of mixed and gamma radiation on living organisms alone, but also on monitoring the long-term effect of low doses on the organism. Evaluation of the measured data will allow further steps towards the development of effective radioprotection/radiomitigation.